The School of Graduate Studies, in collaboration with the Office of the Vice President for Research and Partnership, successfully held its two-day Second PhD Students’ In-House Research Conference on March 12-13, 2026.
Held under the theme “Nurturing the Next Generation of Scholars: Sharing Experience, Refining Research, and Strengthening Academic Culture,” the event brought together Senate members, senior academics, and doctoral students to strengthen JU’s vision of becoming a research-intensive institution.
Dr. Bekalu Ferede, Director of the School of Graduate Studies, opened the conference by emphasizing the collective responsibility of the academic community in nurturing doctoral research. He specifically acknowledged professors and supervisors whose mentorship remains foundational to PhD success.
Prof. Muluemebet Abera, Vice President for Research and Partnership, highlighted ongoing university initiatives including transferable skills training, supervision capacity-building, and integration of students into large-scale research projects.
A keynote address by Prof. Tefera Belachew distinguished scholar with over 400 publications inspired attendees on “Becoming a Scholar: Building a Meaningful Research Career.” PhD graduates Dr. Melaku Takele and Dr. Lucy Feleke also shared personal journeys through lessons, struggles, and successes.
The conference featured 96 PhD student presentations across six parallel sessions, showcasing the depth and diversity of research at JU.
The event concluded with discussions on strengthening research support systems, supervision practices, and collaboration opportunities—reaffirming Jimma University’s commitment to developing the next generation of scholars.
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